27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.99 percent of the residents in 27942 has some form of health insurance. 68.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 27942 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27942. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 226 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 668 health care providers accessible to residents in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Harrellsville, NC (ZIP Code 27942)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Harrellsville, North Carolina, specifically within the 27942 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted examination. This analysis considers the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telehealth services, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the community’s health infrastructure and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. These doctors serve as the entry point into the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Harrellsville, the concentration of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While precise numbers fluctuate, a review of publicly available data, including state medical board listings and healthcare directories, suggests a potentially limited number of primary care providers directly within the 27942 ZIP code. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to routine care, particularly for those with limited transportation options or inflexible work schedules.

The physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric for understanding the burden on existing providers. A high ratio, indicating a large number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially impact the quality of care. Calculating this ratio requires considering the total population within the 27942 ZIP code and comparing it to the number of practicing primary care physicians. While the exact population figures are readily available, obtaining precise physician counts requires constant monitoring. However, based on available data, it is reasonable to assume the physician-to-patient ratio in Harrellsville may be less favorable than the state or national averages, potentially signaling a need for increased healthcare resources.

Identifying standout practices within the community is vital. These practices often demonstrate best practices in patient care, innovative service delivery models, and a commitment to community health. Assessing practices involves considering factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of electronic health records, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. While specific practice names are not mentioned, research should focus on practices that offer comprehensive primary care services, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and patient education. The presence of a dedicated nursing staff, access to after-hours care, and a commitment to patient communication are also crucial indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural communities. Telehealth services can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Harrellsville is a key area of investigation. Assessing the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the accessibility of technology for patients are all critical. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Assessing the availability of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services is critical. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 27942 ZIP code or nearby areas. Partnerships with community organizations and the availability of support groups also contribute to a robust mental health infrastructure.

The overall health score for Harrellsville (27942) is likely moderate. While the community likely benefits from the presence of some dedicated primary care providers and mental health resources, the potential scarcity of physicians, the likely less-than-ideal physician-to-patient ratio, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption suggest areas for improvement. Further research, including direct engagement with healthcare providers and community stakeholders, is necessary to refine this assessment and identify specific strategies for enhancing the community's health outcomes.

The challenges faced by Harrellsville are not unique to rural communities. Limited access to healthcare providers, transportation challenges, and socioeconomic factors can all contribute to health disparities. However, the community's resilience and the dedication of its healthcare providers offer a foundation for improvement. By focusing on increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health resources, and fostering community partnerships, Harrellsville can strive to create a healthier future for its residents.

Understanding the health landscape of any community requires a comprehensive approach, considering the factors that influence access to care, the quality of services, and the overall well-being of the population. This analysis provides a starting point for assessing the health of Harrellsville (27942).

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harrellsville and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps.